What is hair loss?
Losing a few strands of hair on a daily basis is nothing to fret over. Nonetheless, if you’re witnessing a noticeably higher rate of hair fall than usual, it’s perfectly understandable to feel concerned. Male pattern baldness is a common cause of hair loss, although there may be other contributing factors. If you’re worried about your hair loss, it’s advisable to consult with a doctor to discuss the potential benefits of Propecia (finasteride) in either stimulating hair regrowth or reducing the rate of hair loss.
What are the different categories for Hair loss?
Here are various types of hair loss experienced by individuals:
- Telogen effluvium: This type of hair loss typically occurs two to three months after experiencing a severe infection, major surgery, prolonged illness, or intense physical stress.
- Drug-induced hair loss: Certain medications, such as heparin, levodopa, amphetamines, warfarin, and beta-blockers, can also trigger hair loss as a side effect.
- Hair loss as a symptom of underlying health issues: Hair loss may indicate the presence of medical conditions like syphilis, hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, and lupus.
- Tinea capitis (scalp fungal infection): Hair loss occurs when fungi infect the scalp, leading to this particular type of hair loss.
- Alopecia areata: This autoimmune disease causes hair loss, and its exact cause is still unknown.
- Traumatic alopecia: Hair loss resulting from hairdressing techniques that involve excessive heat exposure, tight pulling of the hair, and the use of strong chemicals.
- Hereditary pattern baldness: The most common cause of hair loss, especially among men. It can occur at any time and is often attributed to genetics, aging, and male hormones.
What is Finasteride?
For hair loss caused by hereditary pattern baldness, Finasteride is a suitable treatment option. However, it is generally not prescribed for other types of hair loss. If your hair loss is a result of factors such as stress, illness, or the use of specific medications, resolving the underlying issues may lead to hair regrowth. In such cases, addressing the root causes of hair loss is likely to be more effective than using Finasteride.
What is Propecia?
Propecia is the most common Hair loss treatment
Every year, numerous new treatments for hair loss emerge. Nonetheless, there is a particular medication that is widely utilized, particularly for male hair loss. This medication is commonly known as Propecia, or by its generic name, finasteride. What sets it apart as the favored option for hair loss? Here are a few essential facts you should be aware of.
How did Finasteride became a popular hair loss medication?
Originally developed by Merck as a medication for addressing enlarged prostate glands, finasteride, known by its brand name Propecia, exhibited an unexpected effect during clinical trials. Researchers observed that it stimulated hair growth in men undergoing treatment for prostate issues. Capitalizing on this discovery, the company decided to investigate further and explore the potential of finasteride in treating male pattern baldness. Subsequently, in 1997, finasteride became the pioneering oral medication approved for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia in men.
How does Propecia / Finasteride work?
The effectiveness of Propecia in treating hair loss lies in its distinctive approach that targets the root cause of the issue. In the case of male pattern baldness, the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) plays a significant role. DHT is responsible for the shrinkage of hair follicles, leading to thinning and eventual hair loss. Propecia works by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone into DHT, thus enabling the hair follicles to continue growing and reducing the progression of hair thinning and loss.
Is Propecia effective?
Absolutely, Propecia lives up to its promise unlike many other available treatments. It is highly effective in preventing hair loss. In one study, a remarkable 83% of men who took finasteride consistently over several months reported a cessation of hair loss. Another research study revealed that 66% of men noticed hair regrowth while using Propecia for a duration of two years. These studies are just a couple of examples among many that demonstrate the efficacy of Propecia, also known as finasteride, in inhibiting and slowing the progression of pattern baldness.
However, it’s important to understand that achieving optimal results with Propecia requires consistency. While it has proven to be beneficial for men experiencing hair loss, it is not a magical one-time solution. If preventing hair loss is a priority for you, finasteride needs to become part of your daily routine. By preventing the transformation of testosterone into DHT, Propecia impedes hair loss. If you choose to discontinue or inconsistently take the medication, DHT production may resume, and you will continue to experience hair loss. Prior to starting Propecia, it is crucial to commit to taking the pill every day and be certain that you are ready to make this ongoing commitment.
Do Propecia / Finasteride have any side effects?
Similar to any medication, Propecia carries a possibility of potential side effects. Some individuals have reported experiencing erectile dysfunction, ejaculation disorders, and a decrease in sex drive while using the medication. In extremely rare instances, these sexual-related side effects may persist even after discontinuing the use of finasteride. Additionally, a small number of users have reported instances of rashes and feelings of depression. It is important to note, however, that such cases are infrequent. The majority of individuals who use finasteride do not encounter any of the aforementioned side effects.
When to consult your doctor about hair loss?
If you are seeking the most suitable treatment for your hair loss issue, it is recommended to consult with your doctor regarding the potential benefits of Propecia and/or Finasteride. This medication has been scientifically proven to be effective and may indeed offer the solution you have been seeking. Propecia not only helps prevent hair loss and promote hair growth, but it can also contribute to restoring your confidence and self-esteem.
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/propecia
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19638-finasteride-tablets-alopecia
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/finasteride-oral-route/proper-use/drg-20063819